The National Centre for Malay Manuscripts, located on the 11th floor of the National Library of Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur, employs stringent environmental controls to preserve centuries-old documents that form an important part of Malaysia’s cultural heritage. Temperatures are maintained between 15.5ºC and 20ºC with humidity levels kept at 45% to 50% to prevent deterioration caused by moisture, pests, and other damaging factors.

Abdul Rahman Mohamed Shariff, assistant director of the centre, emphasized that dampness is a primary threat to these fragile manuscripts. “Moisture is one of the main enemies of manuscripts,” he explained. Damp conditions encourage mold growth and attract destructive insects such as termites and silverfish, which feed on paper and can cause extensive damage before their presence is detected. In addition, heat, light, and improper handling all contribute to the deterioration of the documents, making the environmental controls essential to their long-term preservation.

The preservation process begins well before manuscripts arrive at the centre. Abdul Rahman travels nationwide to locate and authenticate manuscripts held by families, private collectors, and other institutions. Earlier this year, he took part in an expedition to Lahad Datu in Sabah to trace such historical texts. While family histories and oral traditions often provide initial leads about the provenance of manuscripts, these claims require verification through detailed examination.

To establish authenticity, specialists analyze the physical characteristics of the manuscripts, including the paper type, texture, watermarks, ink, handwriting, binding, and text content. Watermarks on European paper, for instance, can offer clues to a manuscript’s age, but they are only one element of a comprehensive evaluation. In complex or uncertain cases, the centre collaborates with academic experts and external specialists to cross-check findings.

Abdul Rahman noted that some manuscripts believed by families to date back centuries can turn out to be later copies when subjected to scientific and palaeographic scrutiny. “That does not necessarily mean it is a forgery,” he said. “It could be a genuine handwritten copy of an older work.” Distinguishing between the age of a manuscript’s physical form and the origin of its content is essential to understanding its historical significance.

One example of the manuscripts conserved at the centre includes "Petua, Azimat, Doa, Mantera (MSS 5252)," which compiles traditional Malay remedies, charms, prayers, and incantations that were once used by local communities.

Access to these rare manuscripts is strictly controlled. Researchers must submit formal requests stating their research intentions and agree to abide by handling protocols. Originals are not freely accessible; a staff member retrieves materials and oversees their examination in a designated reading area where visitors wear protective gloves and handle the pages with utmost care.

Abdul Rahman highlighted the importance of this cautious approach, underscoring the responsibility to keep these documents intact for future generations. “A manuscript is not an ordinary book that can simply be taken from a shelf and handled freely,” he said. “Every precaution is necessary because we are responsible for ensuring that it remains available for future generations.”